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noun

outlet

OWT-leht
noun
1
A wall socket that supplies electric power to plugged-in devices.
"She plugged the lamp into the outlet by the window."
"There aren't enough outlets in this room for all my chargers."
2
A way to release energy, emotion, or creativity.
"Running became his main outlet for stress."
"She uses painting as an emotional outlet."
3
A store that sells a particular brand or manufacturer's goods, often at a discount.
"They bought hiking boots at the factory outlet."
"The mall has an outlet for nearly every major clothing brand."

How to Use Outlet

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA point where something — electricity, feelings, or products — gets released or sold.

UK vs US

Americans say "outlet" for a wall socket; British English usually says "socket" or "power point."

Common pairings
power outlet creative outlet retail outlet

Word Forms

outlets plural

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Fill the Gap

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She plugged the lamp into the _____ by the window.

Etymology

From Middle English outleten, "to let out" — built from out- + let, the same "let" as in "let someone through."

Rhymes for outlet

See all rhymes for outlet →
Definitions: FreeDict original editorial